Our story
Who is behind Helia?
Helia was launched in Geneva in 2026 by a group of humanitarian, development and philanthropic advisors to offer a secure location for philanthropic resources.
We combine Switzerland’s democratic and financial advantages with the founders' decades of experience supporting democracy, social, and environmental justice movements.
We provide funders and organisations with responsive, flexible, and cost-effective infrastructure to enable them to reduce administrative procedures, maximise the impact of their resources, and amplify outcomes.
Why Helia?
Helia is the feminine form of sun in Greek and reflects our goal of acting as a source of light for our partners, providing them with the energy and support they need to thrive but also illuminating their work such that others can see their brilliance.
The sun is also a historic symbol of the feminist movement in Switzerland, where we are based. And, our name ties into the motto of our home city in Geneva: Post Tenebras Lux, meaning “After darkness, light.”
Thus, the name Helia encompasses our identity, mission, and how we show up in the world.
Why Switzerland?
Switzerland offers one of the most secure and reliable environments in the world for safeguarding assets and building lasting resilience. It is recognised for negligible levels of corruption, consistently low inflation and a strong rule of law - which creates stability in an increasingly unpredictable world.
The Swiss franc remains one of the most trusted and resilient currencies, supported by a political system that is predictable and resistant to sudden changes. In addition, the country is at the centre of international cooperation.
Switzerland hosts multilateral organisations, key human rights bodies and institutions, and the international conventions that are foundational to international governance.
This combination of economic consistency, political neutrality and global engagement means that Switzerland is a reliable base for organisations and funders that prioritise security, transparency and long term stability.
What we do and why?
Helia Collaborative supports values-aligned civil society organisations and donors by connecting them and offering strategic fundraising advice and tailored accompaniment to advance transformative social and environmental progress.
We are grounded in movement-centred principles that prioritise humility, flexibility, and solidarity. We know that lasting change happens because of the work of changemakers and frontline movements. We celebrate and learn from the expertise of these partners, recognising that the necessary leadership and knowledge for positive change exists within these movements.
At the same time, we recognise the gaps and challenges facing community-based organisations and support partners to address these. Our core purpose is thus to ensure those driving critical change can continue their work with safety, dignity, and reliable support.
What we stand for
What we stand for
Optimism
Optimism
We believe that our collective efforts can light the way to a brighter tomorrow.
Security
Security
We enable movements, organisations, and changemakers to operate free from financial harm and precarity.
Accountability
Accountability
We are accountable to the donors, movements, and organisations whose resources we steward and to the communities that they serve.
Integrity
Integrity
We are honest, ethical, and trustworthy.
Solidarity
Solidarity
We foster respect, inclusion, and justice in our operations and partnerships.
Humility
We recognise and honour frontline expertise and wisdom and we adapt and respond to partners’ priorities.
Humility
Innovation
Together with our partners, we reimagine systems to better serve marginalised communities.